Stop Killing Plants: 10 Indoor Beauties Anyone Can Grow

9. Wax Plant (Hoya carnosa)

A close-up of a blooming Hoya carnosa, a beautiful vining Wax Plant often cherished as one of many House Plants Indoor, showcasing its cluster of star-shaped, pale pinkish-white flowers with red centers. The Hoya, with its waxy green leaves, is displayed in a macrame hanging planter near a window that provides natural light, with blurred outdoor greenery visible in the background.

The sweet-smelling stunner that blooms like magic

Let me tell you about the time I bought a Wax Plant thinking it was just another green plant for my windowsill.

Spoiler: I had no idea what I was in for.

I placed it on a shelf in my Chicago apartment, watered it once every few weeks (because I’m forgetful), and didn’t think much of it—until one summer morning when I walked into the room and caught the most amazing scent.

It was floral, soft, and almost vanilla-like… and coming from my own plant. That’s when I realized this wasn’t just another leafy friend—it was a blooming powerhouse hiding in plain sight.

Now mine hangs in a macramé hanger by my brightest window, and every year without fail, it puts out those gorgeous star-shaped flowers like clockwork.

If you’re into botanical interior design, especially with plants that do more than just sit there, this one’s going to be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love the Wax Plant

Let’s talk texture and fragrance—two things most houseplants don’t offer together.

Those glossy, waxy leaves feel almost plastic to the touch, but then BOOM—you get these clusters of fragrant, star-shaped blooms that make your whole space smell like a fancy candle store.

I’ve used mine as part of a small hanging plant display above my kitchen counter, and it adds so much visual interest and aroma. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rattan baskets, woven wall hangings, or even minimalist decor.

And here’s the kicker: it blooms again and again from the same spurs, so don’t cut them off after the flowers fade!

How to Keep Your Wax Plant Blooming

Okay, let’s be real: this isn’t a high-maintenance diva, but it does have some preferences.

Here’s what I’ve learned through trial, error, and a few very excited Google searches:

Light: It loves bright, indirect light—south or west-facing windows are ideal. Not enough light = fewer blooms.
Watering: Let it dry out between waterings. Seriously. Overwatering is the enemy here. I usually water mine every 3–4 weeks, depending on the season.
Soil & Drainage: Use a well-draining mix—I love a combo of orchid bark and perlite for extra airflow. And always use a pot with drainage holes.
Mounting & Hanging: This plant looks stunning in hanging baskets or mounted on a piece of driftwood or cork. Bonus points if you can give it a little support to climb.

Also, don’t stress too much if it drops a few lower leaves—it’s totally normal.

Common Mistakes I Made (So You Don’t Have To)

First mistake? Watering it like a fern. Yep, I drowned my first one trying to keep it “happy.” Big oops. Now I stick to a strict “wait until it’s dry” rule—and it’s thriving.

Then I moved it around a bunch trying to find the perfect spot. Bad idea. These guys hate being disturbed—they drop buds and shut down growth for weeks.

Oh, and here’s a tip: don’t prune the flower stems after they bloom. Those nubs are called peduncles, and new flowers grow from the same ones. Cut them off and you might not see blooms for months.

Also, don’t expect blooms right away. Mine took nearly a year before its first show—but once it started, it never stopped.

Ready for something elegant and classic that thrives with minimal fuss?

👉 Click the “Next” button below to meet the Parlor Palm, a timeless beauty that brings height, texture, and tropical charm to any indoor space—without asking for much in return.